Missouri Senate endorses change in workplace bias law

Legislation revising parts of Missouri’s laws on workplace discrimination is moving through the state Senate.

The chamber gave first-round approval Wednesday to a bill changing the legal standard people must meet when they file suit claiming they were fired for discriminatory reasons.

Plaintiffs would have to prove that discrimination was a “motivating factor” rather than a “contributing” factor in their firing. The legislation would also limit the amount of damages that plaintiffs could win in such cases.

Supporters say the legislation would make Missouri more appealing to employers. Opponents say it could make employers less likely to prevent workplace discrimination.

The Senate bill needs another vote before moving to the House, which passed a similar measure last month.